I'm looking to transfer to UC Berkeley from a community college and want to make sure I maximize my transferrable credits. Which classes are typically accepted, and how should I ensure my credits are eligible?
UC Berkeley, like many universities, has developed an articulation agreement with California Community Colleges to clearly specify which credits will transfer. This agreement is embodied in the form of Assist.org, an online student-transfer information system that shows how course credits earned at California Community Colleges can be applied to UC Berkeley degree programs.
Through Assist.org, you can find:
- Lists of Berkeley’s major requirements and which community college classes satisfy them.
- Information on IGETC, the set of general education courses California Community Colleges offer that meet lower-division general education requirements at UC campuses.
Keep in mind that certain colleges within UC Berkeley, such as the College of Letters & Science, accept IGETC, while others like the Haas School of Business, or the College of Engineering, might not.
Most importantly, to ensure your credits can be transferred to UC Berkeley, aim to achieve a 'C' grade or higher in the courses, as classes with a 'C-' grade or lower will typically not transfer. You should also focus on completing 'transferable' courses, which are typically more academically rigorous and comparable to courses at 4-year colleges and universities.
Prior to enrolling, it can be very advantageous to meet with a counselor at your community college and review your academic plan, ensuring it aligns with the requirements of your intended major at UC Berkeley. Therefore, make sure you have a dialogue going with academic advisors both at your community college and at UC Berkeley, to ensure you're on the right track.
Be aware of the fact that some programs at UC Berkeley may have prerequisites that need to be completed prior to transfer. Also, you will need at least 60 semester or 90 quarter units to be eligible for transfer.
Although this might seem complex, take heart - UC Berkeley has a strong history of accepting transfer students from community colleges. Optimal planning and guidance, in association with hard work on your part, can certainly pave your way to become a Golden Bear!
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